Mohamud Hussein from Garissa is leading a sustainability initiative to transform the invasive mathenge shrub (prosopis juliflora) into economic and environmental solutions. Through the United People Global Sustainability Leadership programme, he converts waste from the cleared shrub into clean, smokeless briquettes for use in schools and homes. This not only addresses energy needs but also tackles the negative impact mathenge has had on livestock, pasture, and local ecosystems.
The project also promotes replanting with Gliricidia sepium, a tree beneficial to both soil and livestock. Supported by the county government, Hussein’s work aligns with global sustainability goals and has gained international recognition, earning him a place in a fully funded training trip to the USA. His efforts respond to long-standing community concerns, echoed by CS Aden Duale, who has called for national action to eliminate the destructive shrub.
